Housing without harming the countryside

We need affordable housing for the next generation and development to boost growth and create jobs - but in the right places. I don't want to see the countryside concreted over and villages ruined.

My Aims

  • No development at Junction 8
  • Investment in infrastructure must keep pace with development

After the economy, the number one worry people have talked to me about on the doorstep is development. Hundreds of new houses are being built on the edges of villages like Harrietsham, Lenham, Langley and others. On the other hand, many young people are struggling to buy a home. People are living longer and living apart, and together with immigration this means we need more houses.

We must keep the numbers manageable, build in the right places and in the right way, invest in infrastructure like roads and schools, and make sure decisions are made locally. All in all, it’s about getting the balance right; we must look after what we’ve got and give the next generation the chance to own a home.

News

I will continue to oppose Woodcut Farm development

I am disappointed that outline planning permission for an industrial development has been granted for Woodcut Farm by Maidstone Borough Council’s Planning Committee by a 7-5 majority.

No more houses without investment in infrastructure

Sajid Javid has announced changes to the way planning authorities calculate how many homes they need to build in their area.

For Maidstone these changes mean an increase in the housing target from 883 to 1,236 more houses a year, for Swale it's going up from 776 to 1,054 .

I've called a halt to Maidstone's Local Plan

I am very worried about Maidstone’s Local Plan. I have urged Maidstone Council and the Planning Inspector himself to make changes, but they have just steamrollered on. I wish we could have solved this locally, but we’re running out of time.

Woodcut farm rejected again

I am pleased that Woodcut Farm will be protected from a development that would have ruined the countryside around Leeds Castle, after Councillors stuck by the decision to reject the planning application.

Junction 8 business park rejected again

Plans to build a 47,000sqm business park on the edge of the Area of Outstanding Natural beauty have once again been thrown out by the Planning Committee at MBC.   

Protecting this beautiful part of the countryside from a completely inappropriate development is the right decision. 

Say no to business park near Leeds Castle

I'm calling on councillors to stand by their decision to reject a 47,000sqm commercial development close to Leeds Castle and the Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty.